Environmental Protection March Welcomed in Lahaul-Spiti
Tourism Must Go Hand in Hand with Environmental Conservation: Ravi Thakur
Lahaul-Spiti: A march being undertaken with the objective of environmental conservation and creating public awareness was warmly welcomed in Lahaul-Spiti. Ravi Thakur participated in the march led by revered Khamtrul Rinpoche Ji, Soma Rinpoche Ji and Katrak Rinpoche Ji and welcomed the participants for their efforts to spread awareness about the protection of the Himalayan environment.
The march, which commenced from Darcha, is passing through various areas of Lahaul-Spiti. Through this initiative, local residents as well as tourists are being sensitised about the need to protect the Himalayas, glaciers, water sources, wildlife and other natural resources. The march is also conveying the message that environmental protection requires collective responsibility and active participation from all sections of society.
On the occasion, Ravi Thakur said that in Himalayan regions, the environment and human life share a deep and inseparable relationship. Rivers, glaciers, water sources, agricultural fields and rich biodiversity are invaluable assets for future generations. He emphasised that their protection requires the participation and collective efforts of every section of society.
He said that the Government of India has been making continuous efforts to promote tourism and improve connectivity facilities in Lahaul-Spiti. Improved connectivity and the growing tourism sector have given a boost to economic activities in the region while also creating new opportunities for employment and income for local people.
However, Ravi Thakur emphasised that with the expansion of tourism, the responsibility to protect the environment also increases. He urged the state government and administration to give equal priority to essential infrastructure such as toilets, sanitation, solid waste management, drinking water, parking facilities and other basic amenities along with tourism development.
He said that strengthening these facilities would not only provide better services to tourists and local residents but would also help reduce unnecessary pressure on the fragile natural environment of the region.
Ravi Thakur said that the development of Lahaul-Spiti should be planned in a manner that allows tourism and the local economy to grow while simultaneously protecting the natural beauty, environment, culture and rich heritage of the Himalayas. He stressed that the government, administration, local communities and tourists, along with all other stakeholders, must understand their responsibilities and work together towards sustainable development.
Appreciating the efforts being made through the environmental awareness march, Ravi Thakur said that protecting the Himalayas is not merely the responsibility of local residents but a shared responsibility of society as a whole. He said that greater environmental awareness and responsible tourism can play an important role in preserving the unique natural character of Lahaul-Spiti for future generations.